Key Account Manager

Key Account Manager

Current office in Itasca, IL. Moving to Oakbrook, IL

Inaba Foods is a manufacturer of premium pet food, treats, toppers and complements, that is deeply rooted in a family tradition of excellence that has continued for generations. Since 1958, pet parents have entrusted us with the privilege of providing food that is human grade, nutrient rich, and guarantees pet fun.

Our company continues to thrive in the 21st Century. Today, Inaba is the most popular brand of premium cat and dog dinners and treats in Japan, with our products available throughout the world.

Inaba Foods (USA) Inc., is seeking a Key Account Manager to develop and maintain relationships at the headquarter level with potential and existing national and regional retailers as well as distributors within the pet category. Key Account Managers oversee major accounts who generate a substantial portion of sales to build and maintain long-lasting valuable customers.

This is an office-based position in Itasca, IL. Reports to the Regional Sales Manager.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Acts as single point of contact for customers or distributors, nurture existing business and drive volume by increasing distribution and customer partnerships
• Review past and current purchase order history reports to project sales, and determine profitability
• Participates in reviews of performance and market presentations
• Routinely engages with existing accounts to ensure customers’ needs are met or exceeded
• Extensive efforts focusing on increasing volumes of distributors and customers
• Executes and implements strategies of the field and product features to match products to the need of customers
• Provide input for sales estimates for production and planning
• Resolve customer complaints regarding product and sales
• Implements and executes promotional strategies to drive sales
• Determines pricing, promotions, credit terms, and other bid specifications to customers
• Collaborates with executive leadership to develop sales quotes and strategies
• Keep an eye on competitors by observing trends, merchandising techniques, etc
• Manages expenses to stay within budgeted guidelines
• Hunter mentality
• Adheres to all Company policies, procedures and business ethic codes. Represents the Company in a professional manner
• Perform other additional duties as assigned

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in business, Marketing and Sales or related field
• 3-5 years’ experience in CPG sales calling on headquarters and retail stores. Pet industry a plus
• Ability to leverage trends and data
• Create compelling power point sales presentations
• Excellent customer service skills, demonstrates negotiation skills
• Organized, detail-oriented and manage multiple tasks
• Experience partnering with distributors and knowledge of basic distributor model principles
• Excellent time management skills and adaptable to a continually growing environment
• Cross functional team collaboration, internally and within accounts
• Aptitude to travel daily or weekly or spend most of the day in vehicle
• Must hold unrestricted driver’s license and driving record that has no more than three (3) violations in the last two (2) years; and no more than one (1) “at-fault” accident in the past three (3) years
• Ability to commute to the office daily
• Advance proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite or related software

Salary Range and Exemption Status:

Exempt - $70,000.00 to $105,000.00 depending on years of experience, education, and additional studies/certificates/Licenses/Degrees that pertain to the position.

Inaba Foods (USA) Inc. is an EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY employer, and all qualified candidates are considered for employment with Inaba Foods USA, Inc. without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status or other classification protected by applicable federal, state or local law. The Company will consider qualified applicants, including those with criminal histories, in a manner consistent with the local "Fair Chance" Ordinance(s).